Obama tell Republicans that differences on immigration should not be a ‘deal breaker’

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama says Republican opposition to his executive actions on immigration should not be a “deal breaker” on other issues.

He also says that if Republicans question his right to act on his own, they should act on a comprehensive immigration overhaul. He says he wants to work with both parties to pass a more permanent solution to fixing the immigration system.

He says: “Americans are tired of gridlock.”

Obama spoke Thursday night as he unveiled his plans to sidestep Congress and help nearly 5 million immigrants in the United States illegally by making them eligible to avoid deportation and obtain work permits.

Republicans have said Obama’s actions would not only hurt chances of passing an immigration overhaul but also damage his relations with the incoming Republican-controlled Congress.